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Managing migration in an effective and holistic way through fostering returns (debate)
The European Commission has repeatedly claimed that the Migration and Asylum Pact equips the EU with better tools to secure its external borders and respond effectively to migration challenges. However, these are largely hollow promises. The current Returns Directive remains ineffective, and although President von der Leyen has spoken about reviewing the framework, years have been wasted. Since 2018, hundreds of thousands of irregular migrants have not been returned, despite orders. The reality is stark: only about 20 % of third-country nationals ordered to leave the EU have actually returned. In 2022 alone, 515 000 irregular migrants were issued return decisions by EU Member States, but only 86 000 were effectively returned. This indicates a clear failure of the system. A key issue is the over-reliance on voluntary returns, which is not reflective of the true challenges. We must strengthen our capacity to return individuals who do not wish to leave, as this is the predominant reality. Moreover, returns should be prioritised for those posing security threats. While there is much discussion about this, little tangible action has been taken. The lack of effective returns continues to act as a pull factor for illegal migration into the EU, exacerbating the problem.